Extreme Hiking Adventures

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Extreme Adventures

Pushing the limits

By Charmian Christie

Boldly going where no hiker has gone before is not for neophytes or weekend walkers. While extreme adventures can be exhilarating and rewarding, they're also dangerous. Whether you choose to hike in the desert heat or dive into a cool cave , physical challenges, personal risk and extreme weather are all part of the excitement. For many outdoor-life enthusiasts, the risk alone makes any isolated area attractive. Even if Danger is your middle name, it doesn't mean Common Sense can't be your sidekick.

Regardless which extreme adventure calls to you, some elements remain the same. At the risk of repeating ourselves:

Bring specialized gear appropriate to the conditions

Check all gear to ensure they're functioning properly

Bring appropriate supplies

Never venture out alone

Be physically fit for the expedition

Understand the dangers and risks unique to your particular destination

Leave a detailed itinerary with family, friends or park authorities

Bring plenty of water or a water purification system

Dress appropriately

Bring a detailed map and compass (even if you bring a GPS)

Getting to the Edge

Extreme adventures require specialized knowledge, a high level of physical fitness, and a certain amount of psychological conditioning that comes from hard-earned experience. But how do you get from the edge of your couch to the edge of civilization?

Join a club or national association. No matter what your experience level, you'll be able to find a group suited to you. Not only can you find out if the excursion is to your liking, you can ramp up your skill level with people who share your interests.

Go online and learn. There's a forum for everyone these days. Find a forum or two that interest you and see what it's really like to climb a mountain or tramp in the desert. Lurk as long as you like, post questions or chat with those who make outdoor adventures their lifestyle....